The nearly century-old hot dog establishment is no stranger to possible termination, yet the institution seems to be a cat with nines lives. However, this time there might be no comeback after all.
In the spring of 2023, Papaya King had been on the precipice of closing, putting an end to its beloved tropical juice and franks pairing, after Extell Developments filed demolition plans the summer prior. Loyal customers were delighted to discover that though the demolition was still a go, the hot dog haven would simply be relocating across the street at 1535 Third Avenue, between East 86th and 87th streets.
Yet, according to the Daily News, as reported by Eater, it appears the new location never actually opened to service any customers. Though the interior had looked in shape for business, apparently the landlord wouldn’t let Papaya King install a kitchen hood. Without such an appliance, the establishment isn’t operational.
Now, franchisee Sajid “Sid” Sohail, in charge of Papaya King, faces a $4.4 million lawsuit from the landlord for breach of contract. According to the landord, Sohail has not maintained a $5 million insurance policy on the premise and failed to open within the first six months after signing the lease, among additional violations.
Word about issues between the establishment and its new landlord leaked in September after Papaya King was served a notice for rent, totaling $39,000. The building is currently listed to lease.
Papaya King still remains inactive on Instagram since 2020. If the business truly goes down, it will be the end to its 92-year legacy.